Elapsed time computer

ABSTRACT

Apparatus automatically and repetitively operative upon insertions of a card, to print the time of insertion and the time between the insertion and the subsequent insertion; data for the necessary elapsed time computation being registered in a restricted field associated with each printline.

United States Patent Goodrich, Jr. 1 Feb. 22, 1972 [54] ELAPSED TIME COMPUTER 2,591,448 4/1952 Lorenz 72 Inventor: Albert s. Goodrich, Jr., R. I, Boggs Hill mggg zg 'r Road Newtown Conn. 06470 9"" 2,983,443 5/1961 I Robmson et al..... [22] Filed: Oct. 15, 1968 3,373,264 3/1968 Domerau ..235/61.11 [21] APPLNOJ 767,618 3,433,932 3/1969 Rolke ..235/61.l1

Primary Examiner-Daryl W. Cook [52] U.S. Cl. ..235/6l.8 R Attorney-John C. McGregor, James A. Eisenman and Robert [51] Int. Cl. ..G06k 15/00 R. Strack [58] FieldofSearch ..235/61.8,6l.9,61.l11,151.6

[57] ABSTRACT [56] References cued Apparatus automatically and repetitively operative upon in- UNITED STATES PATENTS sertions of a card, to print the time of insertion and the time between the insertion and the subsequent insertion; data for 2,354,549 7/1944 the necessary elapsed time computation being registered in a 3,027,071 3/ 1962 restricted field associated with each printline. 3,118,054 1/1964 2,545,460 3/1951 36 Claims, 26 Drawing Figures PATENTEDFEBZZ I972 3.644.712

SHEET 08 0F 10 INVENTOR. 14/002"! 6. 00009104.]:

. 4 TTU/Q/VEK- ELAPSED TIME COMPUTER BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to time recording devices. More particularly, it relates to apparatus for computing and recording the elapsed time between discrete instants of time.

The computing and recording of elapsed time is of considerable importance in a variety of commercial enterprises. Almost without exception, the accuracy and reliability of the data recorded should be beyond reproach. Thus, there has been a continuing trend toward complete automation of time keeping functions because it offers an ultimate in accuracy and reliability. In addition, however, this trend has received added impetus because it reduces the ultimate costs in carrying out the necessary functions.

Consideration of several typical uses of elapsed time information will establish the required functions of elapsed time recording apparatus and the available equipment for performing these functions.

A major need for recording time and elapsed time information is in conjunction with the time monitoring of the attendance and activities of employees. A timeclock may be used, for example, to print or punch indicia on time cards indicative of when employees enter and leave a work area. Commonly used timeclocks print on the timecards the time of day at which the cards are inserted. Such cards provide daily information that can be used by bookkeepers to keep attendance records and to calculate the compensation due. It should be noted that the timeclock does not compute theelapsed time. This must be done either mentally or, in some recent instances, by separate equipment.

The increasing concern of management with cost analysis is now expanding to a consideration of not only how much time individual employees spend in attendance, but also how much time is spent on the particular projects or on particular work products. For example, where a product is to be fabricated by the individual efforts of a plurality of people, it is of value to know how much time is spent by each person and the total time spent by all involved personnel. This information can be conveniently compiled by assigning a timecard to the product. The time is entered when each person begins work on the product, and when that work terminates. The summation of the elapsed time will then represent the total time spent upon the product. Prior to the present invention, there had not been any satisfactory equipment for automatically facilitating this type of cost analysis system.

Another use for elapsed time computers involves establishing the charges for a large number of bailee-type services. Such charges are determined by the duration of the period during which goods are retained. For example, parking lots charge for parking cars in accordance with the period of time involved. In congested areas, the hourly charges can be quite high and very often vary in accordance with the total number of hours involved. Another common type of storage service is provided for baggage and such at transportation centers.

The timing apparatus currently in general use comprises a clock and printing mechanism. This apparatus responds to the insertion of a card to indicate the time of insertion. An attendant manually inserts the card when the service starts and gives the card to the customer for later identification purposes. When the customer returns to claim his goods, the card is gain manually inserted by the attendant. The attendant then mentally computes the difference between the In and Out" times printed, and consults a rate schedule to determine the charge due.

Several aspects of such systems, the apparatus employed, and the method of its use, should be recognized. First, an attendant is needed to make the necessary mental calculations. Second, the entire procedure of determining the charge requires a considerable period of time in itself. It is the nature of many businesses thatthe checkout time for most customers will substantially coincide. Thus, the time consumed during checkout is extremely important and may result in long lines of impatient customers. Third, since the elapsed time computing is mentally performed, and often involves a time period spanning the noon hour, there is a high possibility of error. Fourth, the interposition of an attendant between the customer and the final statement of amount due, resulting in the customer often being unable to check the out" time punched and the mental calculations, leads to a situation which makes fraud difficult to detect.

Several elapsed time computing units have been designed in the past. These generally include a timing apparatus, printing means, and a unit for subtracting an initial instant of time from a second instant of time to establish the time therebetween. It is conventional to use a card which is inserted into a slot, or specifically positioned on the apparatus. A printing unit prints the time of insertion and a punch perforates or marks the card in accordance with a system indicative of the time of insertion. Upon a second insertion, the card may or may not be differently positioned on the apparatus. In any event, the punched indication is sensed by the apparatus and compared with the time of the second insertion to compute and print out the elapsed time. The existing elapsed time computing equipment is generally designed as an integral part of the time-ofday printing unit and is quite expensive. On the other hand, the existing equipment is not suitable for repetitive operation on a single card and is not adaptable to such operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION I There are a number of important characteristics that should be considered in the design of any elapsed time computing device. It is, of course, essential that the device be accurate and reliable. Furthermore, inasmuch as those operating the device may have motives for tampering with the time indication, it is important that the device be essentially tamper proof. On the other hand, it is also important that the printed indications provided by the device can be understood by both the operator and other personnel designated to take action in accordance with what is printed, and that indicia for machine usage be discrete and difficult to alter.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved elapsed time computer which automatically records a first instant in time and at a second instant in time computes the difference between the first and second instants.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an im proved elapsed time computer which automatically prints the time at which a card is first inserted, and upon the second insertion prints the elapsed time between insertions.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved elapsed time computer which is adapted to accept a card repeatedly and to impress thereon elapsed time data representing the passage of time between each insertion of successive pairs of insertions; wherein the first insertion of each pair of insertions initiates an elapsed time computation cycle.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved elapsed time computer wherein the data for computing the elapsed time is recorded on a card in selectively arranged punched holes which are confined to a relatively restricted area on the card.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide improved card handling apparatus wherein the card is taken from the grasp of an operator and returned to him only after all of the machine functions have been completed.

Inasmuch as there are a large number of timing devices presently in use, it is desirable to provide elapsed time computers which are adaptable to function with already existing time-clock systems, to print both time of day and elapsed time information. It is also desirable that the elapsed time computing apparatus and the time of day recording apparatus operate independently upon each card. Still further, it is desirable that the elapsed time computer should not be limited with regard to the time of day during which it is used.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved elapsed time computer that is adaptable to function with conventional timeclock systems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved elapsed time computer wherein there is no direct relationship between the elapsed time data printed on the individual cards and the time of day.

In addition to the broad objects already noted, the present invention exhibits a number of unique features which both individually and in combination lend uniqueness and utility.

First, the apparatus employed to perform the timing, printing, and computing functions described hereinafter, can be assembled in an extremely compact form and permits the utilization of narrow cards with adjacent columns for printing in time and elapsed" time, and for punching the required data for elapsed time computations in a very restricted field.

Second, the present invention features a unique sequence of steps by which the apparatus accepts a card and treats it differently on succeeding insertions by punching information for subsequent use or by computing elapsed time.

Third, means are provided in the present invention for automatic card processing which eliminates the possibility of intervention by an operator and automatically assures the proper positioning of each card as it is inserted. Means are provided which operate in conjunction with punch means in the apparatus in order to determine how many times a particular card has been inserted. Furthermore, a special card drive means is employed which insures repeatable positioning of each card as it is successively inserted. Still further, unique means are provided for distinguishing and initiating reading and punching operations.

Fourth, the elapsed time computing apparatus itself, and its method of operation, embraces a number of unique features, Among these features, as fully described hereinafter, there is a cylinder having a plurality of projections suitably disposed on its surface so that the rotational aspect of the drum discretely represents the amount of time that has elapsed from the beginning of its rotation. A sensing unit in combination with a punching unit cooperate with the elapsed time computing cylinder in order to record on an inserted card the necessary data for making elapsed time computations. These individual elements and their cooperative action provide uniquely compact and reliable computing features. In addition, there is provided means for selectively subtracting a predetermined amount of time in the event that the computing cylinder has been utilized during particular periods of its cycle.

It will be appreciated that a large number of elements and subcombinations of elements appear in the complete apparatus of this invention. A number of these elements and subcombinations are in themselves novel and may be employed to advantage in apparatus that differs from the specifically described embodiment shown hereinafter. These elements and subcombinations will become clear along with still other objects and features of the invention from the following detailed description which is made in connection with the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. I is an exploded view showing the basic components of an elapsed time computer of the type contemplated by the present invention;

FIGS. 2A through 2D illustrate the upper portions of a job card as it would appear initially and after successive insertions into the apparatus of this invention;

FIG. 3 is a pictorial schematic illustrating the functional interrelationship of various important components of the apparatus of the invention,

FIG. 4 is a wiring diagram of the electrical units employed in conjunction with the apparatus of the invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are timing diagrams depicting the operation of various switches as a function of time;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a portion of the elapsed time computing apparatus, illustrating several principal components and showing the mounting relationship between these components;

FIG. 6B is a sketch of a hybrid cross-sectional view taken through several horizontal planes of the apparatus shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. '7 is a sketch illustrating the card driving means of the apparatus;

FIG. 8 is a sketch illustrating the card stop linkage and register punch employed in the illustrative embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 9A through 9C comprise an illustrative layout of the surface of an elapsed time computing cylinder during successive time intervals;

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross section view taken along a vertical plane through the punch and sensing assemblies and showing the discriminator elements of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. III is a schematic cross section view taken along a vertical plane through the punch and sensing assemblies and showing the elements of said assemblies and their relationship to an elapsed time computing cylinder;

FIG. I2 is an enlarged cross section view taken along a horizontal plane through the punch, sensing, and computing cylinder assemblies;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the punch assembly frame;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the sensor assembly frame;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the drum reset mechanism;

FIGS. I6 and 17 are front and side views respectively, illustrating the arrangement for driving two elapsed time computing cylinders;

FIG. 18 is a side view illustrating the subtract mechanism of the present invention; and

FIG, 19 is a vertical cross section through a computing cylinder.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT In accordance with conventional practice, similar components appearing in the various figures are designated with the same reference numerals. The following description is divided into sections in order to concentrate attention upon the individual subcombinations of elements which cooperate to perform particular functions.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION An understanding of the principal components of the invention will be available from a consideration of the exploded view of FIG. I.

In the center of FIG. I, a card 10 is poised over a channel formed by a backing plate 11 and L-shaped guide members 12 and 13. A large U-shaped member 15 straddles the channel and limits and restricts the ability of a party desiring to force the card in or grasp it after it is inserted. A slot 14 makes it possible to more easily grasp the card by the fingers after it has been processed. It should be appreciated that although the card receiving channel is depicted as being oriented in a vertical direction, it may in fact be oriented horizontally. The actual orientation is a factor within the control of the specific equipment designer.

As the card It) enters the channel, it passes an aperture to, and as described hereinafter will come into contact with a switch SW-I which detects its presence. A further aperture 17, adjacent to aperture 16, is provided in order to permit a driving wheel 202 to contact the card. Driving wheel 202 is positioned in opposition to a spring loaded pressure wheel 2015 and these two wheels in concert operate to automatically propel the card 10 forward and toward the right channel member 113 as viewed in the figure. The movement of card It) will continue past aperture 19 on the lower end of the card channel assembly; the motion continuing until prevented by stop means 227 which projects through hole 19.

In the lower left quadrant of FIG. 1, the elapsed time computing cylinders 300 and 310 are illustrated. These cylinders act in concert with the punch assembly 30 which is interposed between them and the card channel. When computing elapsed time, they are driven by read clutch gears 72, 73.

In the upper right quadrant of FIG. 1, card sensing assembly 40 is illustrated along with the discriminator sensing unit which includes discriminator pin 326 and associated components. The operation of each of these components will be explained hereinafter as the various functions of the apparatus are more fully described.

Before proceeding with the description of the operation of the apparatus, attention is directed to FIGS. 2A through 2D which illustrate the upper portion of a typical card of the type contemplated. Such cards may be provided with three longitudinal columns: the first being designated In; the second being designated Elapsed Time;" and the third being designated Job. The In column is designed to indicate the time at which a card is initially inserted. In the event that the card is inserted a plurality of times, each odd insertion will result in the printing of the time of day at which the odd insertion is made. Month, day, and year information may also be printed in this column. The Elapsed Time column is designed to receive a printed indication of the time that elapses between each insertion of successive pairs of insertions. Throughout the following discussion, reference will be made to odd and even insertions. Odd" insertions are the first insertions of each pair and even insertions are the second insertions of each pair. The Job" column contains punched holes which provide coded information for the elapsed time computations, provide registration data for automatically positioning the card, and provide indicia for selective opera tion of the sensor and punch assemblies. FIG. 2A illustrates a card before if has been processed.

The card shown in FIG. 2B appears in the condition exhibited after a first insertion. This card indicates that the insertion was made at 7:45 on Apr. 15. Holes 307 and 308, appearing on the opposite sides of the Job column, indicate the position of the elapsed time computing cylinders at the instant of card insertion. Discriminator hole 309 indicates that an in," or odd," insertion has been made. The presence of hole 309 subsequently apprises the apparatus that the next insertion is a second, or even, insertion and requires computation of elapsed time.

FIG. 2C illustrates a card after a second insertion. It will be seen that this card contains the designation 3.1 in the Elapsed Time" column. This is the amount of time that has elapsed (in decimal form) since the first insertion at 7:45. The Job" column is also different at this time due to the appearance of a register stop hole 312. The function of this hole is to apprise the equipment upon the next insertion of the card that the card should be moved in order to effect printing upon the second line.

FIG. 2D illustrates a card as it appears after a third insertion at 10:51, Apr. 15. It will be noted that in addition to the printed time of insertion in the in column, several holes have been punched in the .1 ob column, designating the position of the elapsed time computing cylinders at 10:51. This third insertion was made immediately after the second insertion. This accounts for the fact that the elapsed time between the first and third insertions corresponds to the indicated elapsed time of 3.1 hours that appears on the first line.

The general sequence of operations performed by the elapsed time computer may be understood by reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5. As illustrated in the upper left quadrant of FIG. 3, when a card 10 is inserted into the equipment it actuates the card drive switch SW-l which projects through the aperture 16 mentioned in connection with FIG. 1. Actuation of switch SW-l is effective via the normally closed contacts 51 of relay RY-l (FIG. 4) to energize a card drive motor M1 in the forward direction. It will be noted that in FIG. 4, the alternating supply voltage is indicated symbolically by 115 on one line and ion the other. Obviously, this notation is for purposes of description only, and does not infer any necessity to use a particular voltage magnitude. Card drive motor Ml then begins rotation and drives wheel 202 in a direction to urge the card 10 into the equipment. The leading edge of the card progresses past the sensing and punching assemblies 40, 30 and actuates normally closed switch SW-Z. This is the card stop solenoid release switch. Whenactuated, switch SW-2 deenergizes the card stop solenoid SOL-3, permitting the spring associated therewith to urge the end of the card stop pin 225 into contact with the card. The card continues its forward travel until it reaches card stop 227. Card stop 227 is adapted to move under the force of the card end and in so doing actuates the card stop switch SW-3.

Operation of switch SW-3 energizes the discriminator solenoid SOL-4 through normally closed contacts of relay RY-l and switches SW-6 and SW-l6. Spring is weak relative to spring 56 and functions to initially hold discriminator arm 330 against a stationary block 332. When solenoid SOL4 is energized it acts through strong spring 56 to overcome weak spring 55 and pull arm 330 forward until the discriminator pin 326 strikes the surface of card 10. When discriminator pin 326 is in contact with the card surface, arm 330 is just short of actuating discriminator switch SW-S. The plunger of solenoid SOL-4 continues to travel, working against strong spring 56 and actuates the discriminator switch energizing switch SW4. Operation of switch SW-4 then energizes motor M2 through the normally closed contacts of switches SW-S and SW9.

Four cams 62 through 65 are driven by motor M2 and comprise the In-sequence" control mechanism. These cams control four switches, SW-6, SW-7, SW-8, and SW-9, respectively. The functioning of the switches, from a time standpoint, is illustrated in FIG. 5A. Switch SW-9 operates to hold In-sequence motor M2 in operation until it finishes a complete revolution. Switch SW-6 initiates the withdrawal of discriminator pin 326 from the card surface, by opening the circuit previously established by SW-3 and deenergizing solenoid SOL-4. Switch SW-8 operates the punch assembly solenoid SOL-5 in the manner discussed hereinafter. Switch SW-7, after the preceding operations are completed, operates relay RY-1 to reverse the rotation of motor M1 and thereby effects extraction of the card from the elapsed time computing mechanism.

Returning to a consideration of the sequence of events following energization of the punch solenoid switch SW-S, it will be seen in FIG. 4 that the actuation thereof establishes a direct circuit from alternating current source for energizing the punch assembly solenoid SOL-5. As a result of this energization, the punch assembly 30 moves forward and forces card 10 onto the punches which cooperate with elapsed time computing cylinder 300, 310 to punch holes 307 and 308. In addition, as the assembly 30 is moved, the discriminator hole 309 is punched and the card is placed in printing position. In this position, switch SW-l0, shown in the upper right quadrant of FIG. 3, is momentarily activated to energize solenoid SOL-6 and print the In time. Switch SW-l0 and solenoid SOL-6 are illustrated to facilitate understanding of the disclosure. Actually, these elements, or equivalents, are conventional components of most time clocks.

As previously noted, switch SW-7 is the last to operate and this causes motor M1 to drive card 10 in the output direction. As the card is ejected, it releases first switch SW-3 and then switch SW-2. Switch SW-l is released when the card is removed from the machine, thereby deenergizing motor M1, and simultaneously returning relay RY-l toits normal state by removing power from holding contacts 50.

Thus, as a result of the initial insertion of a card into the equipment, the In time is printed, holes are punched representative of the exact time of insertion, as indicated by the elapsed time computing cylinders, and a discriminating hole is punched representative of the fact that time data appears in the third card column. The next insertion requires an operation of the read-sequencing switches so that the elapsed time can be computed and printed on the card.

Upon insertion of the card a second time, a sequence is initiated which is similar to the previously described Insequence, up to the point where arm 330 is positioned by solenoid SOL-4. In other words, as the card is presented to the equipment, the drive switch SW-l is actuated and functions through closed contacts 51 of relay RY-l to energize the card drive motor M1. Thereafter, under control of the wheel 202, the card progresses until its leading edge actuates switch SW-2. Once again, switch SW-2 energizes the card stop solenoid SOL-3 and the spring associated therewith urges the card stop pin 225 into contact with the card and the card continues its forward travel until it is impeded by card stop 227. As in the initial insertion, switch SW-3 then operates and energizes the discriminator solenoid SOL-4 which overcomes the balance on discriminator arm 330 and pulls discriminator pin 326 toward the surface of the card 10.

At this point, a difference in operation begins. Since a discriminator hole 309 was punched in the card during the first insertion, the discriminator pin 326 passes through this hole and as a result switch SW-S will have been switched to a read position when switch SW-4 is activated. Then, when switch SW-4 closes, it energizes read motor M3 in a circuit comprising the normally open contacts of switch SW-S. A Read Sequencer" is provided for controlling the readout of the computing cylinders. This unit includes carns 151 through 157 operative upon switches SW-ll through SW17, respectively. It is disposed across the bottom portion of FIG. 3. As schematically illustrated therein, motor M3 rotationally drives the cams via shaft 431. In addition to turning cams 151-157, when cam shaft 431 beings to turn, cam 432 (see FIG. 1) releases a spring loaded bail 433 and begins to move the read sensor assembly 40 forward.

As noted previously, holes were punched in the card during its first insertion which represented the position of the elapsed time computing cylinders at the time of insertion. At this time, the two punch assembly punches which originally punched the time storage holes in the card are again moved forward along with a register stop hole punch 232. Register hole 312 is punched in the card, and the complete calculating and printing sequence is carried out. The details of this read sequence will be fully explained in the subsequent detailed description of the specific elements of the read sensor assembly. At this time, the functioning of the various switches will be mentioned.

Switch SW-ll is primarily a general control which insures that the sequencer makes a complete rotation of cam shaft 431 before stopping. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5B, switch SW-l2 is next actuated and it is effective to energize the dual slip read clutch solenoid SOl-7. This drives the decimal hour and hour cylinders 310, 300 backward in one-to-one ratio with cam shaft 431. Switch SW- energizes the punch assembly solenoid SOL-5 to bring the card forward to printing position; but, no additional holes are punched at this time. Switch SW-13 energizes and deenergizes the elapsed time print solenoid SOL-9 to print the elapsed time in the second column of the card. The continued rotation of cam 432 thereafter begins driving the read sensor 40 to its original position. After initial operation of switches SW-15 and SW-13, the discriminator cutout switch SW-16 deenergizes solenoid SOL-4 in order to effect withdrawal of discriminator sensing pin 326 from the card. Finally, switch SW-14 operates to energize relay RY-l, effecting reversal of contacts 51, to reverse motor M1 and energize solenoid SOL-3 in order to withdraw the tip 226 of the register pin 225 from the card and eject the card.

In the manner previously discussed in connection with the initial card insertion, ejection of the card effects release of switch SW-3, switch SW-Z, switch SW-l, and relay RY-l.

Upon a third insertion of the card, a sequence of events identical to the first insertion will be carried out. The only deviation from this sequence of events resides in the fact that the register stop pin tip 226 will now be engaged in the register stop hole .312 that was punched into the card upon its second insertion. This means that the card is stopped at a predetermined distance from card stop 227. The predetermined distance is a function of the desired vertical distance between the register stop pin tip 226 and register punch 232. This will be seen more clearly in FIG. 8.

When the card is inserted a fourth time, the sequence of second insertion except that the register stop pin tip 226 will intercept the register stop hole 312 as in the case of the third insertion and the data will be recorded on a second line of the card as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 2D.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are presented in order to provide an appreciation of the relative positioning of the various major components of the elapsed time computer. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a subchassis of the unit containing the time computing cylinders and the read clutch mechanism; and F IG. 6B is a cross-sectional type view taken through horizontal planes of FIG. 6A. These figures are provided for illustrative purposes only and, for this reason, the crosssectional view in FIG. 6B is not through a particular plane only; nor are all elements illustrated in each view.

With reference to FIG. 6A, it will be be seen that the unit is primarily contained within a subchassis consisting of external mounting plates 90, 91, 92, and 93. The mounting plates are held rigidly inappropriate positions by suitably arranged supporting spacers such as 94. It is these mounting plates which provide the bearing surfaces for the shafts upon which the cooperating elements are mounted. The elapsed time computing cylinders 300 and 310 are supported on shaft 305 and the engaged reading clutch mechanism, including cooperating gear elements 72 and 73, are mounted upon shaft 71. Cam 432 is also illustrated in FIG. 6A and it will be recalled with reference to the exploded view in FIG. 1 and the preceding discussion, that this cam is operative to position the read sensor assembly during the second insertion of a card in the elapsed time computer. FIG. 6A also clearly illustrates that motor M3 drives shaft 431 and that the shaft has mounted thereon the cams 151 through 157 which control the electrical operations of the Read sequencer.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 6B which shows the various elements of the invention in somewhat greater detail. Thus, for example, in FIG. 6B the mounting of the elapsed time computing cylinders 300 and 310 along with the printing sectors 436 and 437 is quite apparent. In addition, the various elements of the readout clutch are illustrated along the lower portion of the figure. As shown by the dotted extension lines 42 and 43, the elements 72 and 73 engage respectively elements 489a and 48% of the elapsed time computing assembly. FIG. 6B also shows in some clarity, the relative positioning of the reading and punch assemblies and the elapsed time computing cylinders. This matter will be discussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 12. On the other hand, it is worthwhile at this point to note the positioning and cooperation of solenoid SOL-5 which appears at the upper portion of the figure and which is connected to act upon bar 430 of the punch assembly.

CARD DRIVE In beginning to review the individual subcomponents of the apparatus, attention will first be given to FIGS. 1 and 7. FIG. 7 discloses the drive elements which take control over a card when it is inserted by an operator. Motor M1 is disposed at an angle so that the shaft 201 thereof positions a driving wheel 202 in a manner to drive the card 10 into the side of guide channel 13. Thus, as a card is inserted into the input slot the card is driven forward in contact with the side of guide chan nel 13, under the influence of the rotating drive wheel 202. This is an essential feature of the invention because the material to be printed and the date to be punched in the card must appear in specific prescribed areas and must appear with considerable accuracy in order to insure reliability of the information printed and/or punched. FIG. 7 and also FIG. 13 illustrate the pressure wheel 203 that contacts the opposite side of each card. It will be seen that the pressure wheel 203 is also mounted at an angle so that the axis thereof is in alignment with the axis 201 upon which the drive wheel is mounted. FIGS. 7 and 13 also show that the pressure wheel 203 is mounted upon bracket means 204 which in turn is mounted upon a projecting portion of member 229 that forms the entry portion of the slot 28. It has already been mentioned that motor M1 is controlled by the actuation of switch SW4 and also by the condition of relay RY1. The switch is activated whenever a card is inserted and the relay is actuated in order to effect withdrawal of the card after all necessary operations have been completed.

CARD STOP LINKAGE AND REGISTER PUNCH FIG. 8 discloses the apparatus employed to insure stopping of the card at an appropriate position for successive imprints as a result of successive insertions. There are two aspects to the operation of this structure. First there must be means for insuring that the card is properly positioned. Second, means must be provided for identifying each position so that upon a subsequent insertion of the card the new position will be assumed.

It will be seen that FIG. 8 represents a lever 225 in a vertical position. This corresponds to the horizontally disposed register stop pin 225 depicted in FIG. 3. The tip 226 of lever 225 projects orthogonally from the lever toward the surface of an inserted card 10. The lever is pivoted upon an armature 233 of solenoid SOL-3 and switch actuator 223 and has projection 227 extending toward the path of the card 10. The linkage of lever 225 to armature 233 includes a slot 235 on the lever which engages a pin 236 on the armature. This slot-pin connection permits vertical motion of the lever relative to the armature. When a card strikes against card stop 227, it will force the lever downward and in so doing effects energization of switch SW-3 via connecting member 223.

It will be recalled that when a card 10 is inserted in the mechanism, it passes the card stop projection 226 and actuates switch SW2. With reference to the circuit diagram in FIG. 4, the actuation of switch SW2 is effective to deenergize normally energized solenoid SOL-3 and thereby permit the spring 228 to force lever 225 toward the right. Under this pressure, the tip 226 bears against the surface of the card. In the event of a first insertion, the card would continue to travel until it strikes the card stop member 227. After the sequence of events previously described during which the motor M3 is energized to initiate a read sequence, the sensor block 231 of assembly 40 moves forward, carrying with it register punch 232 which punches a hole in the card at the position 312 shown in FIG. 2C. The sensor assembly is then withdrawn by cam 432 and the card is extracted from the unit by reversing the drive of motor M-l.

Upon a subsequent insertion of the card, the tip 226 of the card stop linkage lever 225 will engage the hole 312 and stop the card before it reaches card stop 227. Hence, the printed and punched material will appear upon the next line. Thus, the card stop linkage is effective to control which line on the card is used and makes possible the repetitive use of a single card.

DISCRIMINATOR PUNCH The manner in which the discriminator punch operates to develop discriminator holes 309 is illustrated in FIG. 10. It will be recalled that these holes indicate to the apparatus the fact that this is a second insertion of the card and the elapsed time should be computed. FIG. 10 is a sketch of a vertical sectional view through the sensor and punch assemblies. The left of this figure shows the discriminator disc 488 which is mounted upon shaft 305 between the decimal-hour and hour cylinders of the elapsed time computer (see FIG. 12). The punch assembly is shown to the right of the discriminator disc, and on the extreme right, the sensor assembly is shown. In this figure, it will be seen that the card slot 28 has a card 10 poised directly above it, and it will further be seen that the housing 230 of the punch assembly contains a discriminator punch 200. This punch is mounted through the punch assembly and has a shoulder in contact with a stripper bar 328. It is retained in position by spring 327 and is aligned with the discriminator sensing pin 326 in the sensor block 231. The discriminator sensing pin, on its rearrnost edge, has an actuating member 330 coupled thereto via pin 331 and groove 329.

As a result of the interpositioning of the above-mentioned components, when the punch assembly 230, 234 is forced toward the discriminator disc 488 under the influence of solenoid SOL,5, discriminator punch 200 engages the periphery of the disc and it does not move further. The remainder of the unit, however, continues moving to the left and die plate 234 forces the card across punch 200 placing a hole therein corresponding to the discriminator hole 309 illustrated in FIG. 2B. When the punch assembly is subsequently withdrawn to the right, the punch 200 may stick in the hole and begin to move to the right also. This is stopped when the shoulder thereon strikes the stationary stripper bar 328.

ELAPSED TIME COMPUTING CYLINDERS The time measuring element of the present invention takes the form of a cylinder 300 or 310 having projections discretely spaced about the periphery thereof. Where the data is to be punched separately in hours and decimal-hours, two cylinders are employed. One of the cylinders is utilized to control the punching of holes representative of the time in decimal-hours and the other cylinder is employed to control the punching of holes representative of hours. Obviously, the cylinders may also be designed to represent other units of time or to represent, for example, charges arranged according to a predetermined time schedule.

An indication of the profile of cylinders of this type is shown by cylinder 300 in FIG. 11. A layout of a portion of a cylinder surface appears in FIGS. 9A through 9C. Each projection 301 on the cylinder comprises a first plateau portion 303 and a second raised plateau portion 302. The projections are spaced 18 apart and, in the particular illustrated layout, five projections are spaced across the width of the cylinder in order to provide a staggered arrangement.

The punching and sensing members which cooperate with these projections in order to both punch holes in the card and sense the location of holes, occupy positions corresponding to representative locations 304 in FIGS. 9A through 9C. As shown in these figures, there are ten positions for the members. The positions are spaced across the cylinder so that each position corresponds to a track or channel in which the projections will appear. Furthermore, the two rows of positions are separated by 9.

The reason for the layout of the positions and projections will be immediately appreciated when it is realized that the cylinders are indexed in a particular fashion corresponding to the time elapsed. The decimal-hour cylinder 310, for example, makes one revolution every 4 hours. It is indexed in 9 increments. Thus, each 9 step takes place every one-tenth of an hour. If it is considered that FIG. 9A represents the position of a decimal-hour cylinder at an initial instant of time, FIG. 98 represents the position of the cylinder one-tenth of an hour later (i.e., 6 minutes later). FIG. 9C represents the position of the cylinder relative to the sensing positions two-tenths of an hour after the initial instant. As viewed in FIGS. 9A through 9C, cylinder rotation moved the cylinder surface upward relative to the sensing positions 304. Ateach indexed position of the cylinder, a different sensing position will be controlled by the projections 301. For purposes of discussion, the drum sensing positions may be numbered as illustrated in FIG. 9A. Thus, at the initial instant of time the first plateau 303 of a projection will dominate sensing position 5, one-tenth of an hour later, the first plateau of another projection will dominate sensing position 6, and two-tenths of an hour later, this second projection will dominate sensing position 7. The manner in which the projections 301 control the sensing and punching apparatus will be considered shortly.

The hour cylinder operates in a fashion similar to that of the previously described decimal-hour cylinder, the only distinction residing in the fact that the cylinder is rotated at a rate of one revolution in 40 hours.

Inasmuch as neither cylinder is necessarily synchronized to actual time, there is no limitation upon the elapsed time actually printed. Clearly, the computing cylinders do not function in accordance with the conventional 12 hour time cycle.

The indexing mechanism, by which the time computing cylinders are driven, appears in FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG. 16 is a sketch showing the drive mechanism in contact with the timing cylinders, and FIG. 17 is a sketch illustrating the drive linkage between a constantly rotating shaft 452 and a toothed wheel 450 spring coupled to the decimal-hour cylinder. The rotation of the driving wheel 450 is controlled by an elapsed time cam 453, that is in turn rotated in a clockwise direction on a shaft which makes exactly revolutions per hour. The latter shaft 452 is driven by elapsed time motorM-4. Each time the cam 453 makes a complete revolution, it pushes fol lower 454 in a downward direction in opposition to extension spring 456 which is anchored to a fixed point 457. The downward movement of follower 454 causes a counterclockwise motion of member 455 about pivot 458 and also effects a downward movement of member 459 coupled thereto. Member 459 is pivotally attached to lever 462 via pin 460 and is effective to move lever 462 downward to engage the next tooth of ratchet wheel 450. As member 455 follows cam 453 in an upward direction, the ratchet wheel is driven one step in a clockwise direction. A backstop pawl 465 is employed in order to prevent wheel 450 from backing up in a counterclockwise direction. Each of the elements is designed and constructed to effect a 9 movement of the toothed wheel 450 with each cycle of operation.

The ratchet wheel 450 is provided with 40 notches and is spring-coupled to the decimal-hour cylinder 310. Spring-coupled to the hour cylinder 300 is another ratchet wheel 451 with 40 notches and a ratchet wheel 468 with four notches is rigidly fastened to drive wheel 450. A pair of pawls 485, 486 is connected by element 487. Pawl 486 is indexed every time pawl 462 is, but only when it is in one of the four notches in 468 does pawl 485 engage ratchet wheel 451. Thus, pawl 485 is effective to index the hour cylinder once for each 10 steps of the decimal-hour cylinder. This means that cylinder 300 makes one 9 step each hour.

PUNCH AND SENSOR ASSEMBLIES The elements involved in the punching and sensing operations of the present invention may be understood by consideration of FIGS. 11 and 12. FIG. 12 is a sketch of a crosssectional view taken essentially along a horizontal plane through the axis of the time computing cylinders and the punch and sensor assemblies. FIG. 11 is a sketch of a crosssectional view taken substantially along a vertical plane along the line 1l11 in FIG. 12. It should be appreciated that although these figures illustrate only two punch and sensor elements, there are 10 such elements within the assembly as sociated with each cylinder. The position of the elements corresponds to the sensing positions 304 previously mentioned in connection with FIGS. 9A through 9C.

The punches are mounted within the punch assembly 30, which comprises a first portion 230, a second portion 229, and a third portion 234 (see FIG. 10). The space between portions 229 and 234 on one side, defines the card slot 28 through which cards are driven under the control of drive motor M 1. It will be seen that typical punches 400, 401 extend through apertures in walls 230 and 229 of the punch assembly. A stripper bar 328 is anchored on one end to a fixed pin 407 and is connected at the other by a pin 238 and bracket 239 which in turn is fixed to member 410. This bar runs transverse to the punch assembly between an upper and lower row of punches. Each punch has a shoulder portion 404, 405 that is held in contact with the stripper bar 328 under the influence of a spring 402, 403.

The sensor assembly 40, comprises a single plate member 231 having a plurality of apertures therein for the mounting of sensor elements 420, 421. These elements are held in a forward position under the influence of springs 422. Each sensor element is coaxially aligned with a punch and has direct access thereto via apertures 246 in die plate 234 of the punch assembly.

The sensor assembly is held in alignment with the punch assembly by means of a shaft 412, along which it slides. Shaft 412 is axially movable within fixed members 410 and 414. The punch assembly 30 is rigidly secured to shaft 412, and is biased away from fixed support 410 by means of spring 411. On the other hand, sensor assembly 40 is urged toward punch assembly 30 by-a pair of springs 434 (FIG. 14) but held away from it by cam 432.

When it is desired to carry out a punching cycle, switch SW-8 of the In-sequencer is closed, energizing solenoid SOL-5, and shaft 412 and bridge 413 are moved forward toward the computing cylinders 300, 310 (see FIG. 13). This movement is in opposition to the force of spring 411. As elements 234 and 229 move forward, the card (not shown) carried in slot 28 is also carried forward. When the upper edges of the punches 400, 401, etc., are contacted by the card, they too begin to move forward in opposition to their individual element springs 402, 403, etc., however, one punch associated with the decimal-hour cylinder 310 and one punch associated with the hour cylinder 300 will not be able to traverse a full forward motion because of an aligned projection on the proximate cylinder. As illustrated in FIG. 12, for example, projec tion 320 appearing beneath punch 400 will impede its forward travel.

The indexing of the elapsed time recorder cylinder is arranged so that at any stationary position one of the projections will be disposed with the lower level 303 in the path of one of the punch elements. As the punch assembly portions 229 and 234 continue to move forward, the punches impeded by the projections of the elapsed time recorder cylinders will perforate the card. The perforations are at discrete locations on the card indicative of the rotational position of the respective cylinders.

Proceeding with the normal cycle of operation, after its forward movement, the punch assembly 30 is returned under the force of spring 411 upon deenergization of solenoid SOL5. As the punch assembly 30 returns to its home position, the punch elements which perforated the card may tend to stay in the holes created. In order to remove them, stripper bar 328 has been provided. Thus, as the punch assembly 30 withdraws, shoulder 404, for example, strikes the stripper bar 328 and permits the card to be carried back while holding back the punch elements. The positioning of the two rows of punches relative to the projections on a drum 300 is clearly visible in FIG. 11.

Consider now the operation of the sensor assembly 40 when a card is inserted into the unit a second time. As previously noted, a second insertion of a card is effective to initiate the read sequencing motor M-3 which rotates shaft 431 and the cam 432 mounted thereupon (see FIG. 14). Rotation of cam 432 is effective to release sensor bail 433 permitting springs 434 to urge the sensor elements 420, 421, etc., forward. As the sensor plate 231 moves forward, sensor elements 420 and 421 bear against the card in all instances except where the punched apertures appear. In the absence of apertures, biasing springs 422 are overcome and permit the sensing elements to stop in their travel. At these locations, the sensing elements continue on through the card and make contact with the aligned punch elements. Thus, for example, if it is assumed that the aperture appears in a position below sensor element 420, element 420 will penetrate the card and bear against punch element 400. A direct consequence of this action is that punch element 400 is pushed toward the elapsed time recording cylinder 300. The bail stops 416, 417 (FIG. 14) are provided so that the selected punches are moved to a position just shy of the first plateau 303 of the projections 301, but beyond plateau 302. It now becomes necessary to detect which of these elements are depressed and to interpret this in terms of elapsed time.

ELAPSED TIME COMPUTATION It will be recalled that during the elapse of time, the drive mechanism described in connection with FIGS. 16 and 17 is effective to continuously index the elapsed time recording cylinders in increments of 9. FIGS. 12 and 19 shown sketches of the mechanisms associated with the elapsed time recording cylinders. In FIG. 19, the normal indexing efiects a counterclockwise rotation of the cylinder 310. In FIG. 12 this means that the upper portion of the cylinders 300, 310 is retreating.

Each of the cylinders comprises a number of interconnected elements in order to control the driving and positioning thereof. Considering the decimal-hour cylinder 310 as typical, the driving toothed wheel 450 is coupled to the cylinder 310 via pin 130, spring 132, and pin 131. Pin 130 is secured to toothed wheel 450 and pine 131 is secured to the cylinder at the wall 134 thereof. Spring 132 is wound about the hub 136 of the cylinder in a direction to keep the pins in bearing contact. Gear 4898 is secured to wall 134 of the cylinder and is adapted for engagement with gear 73 of the read clutch to effect readout. Each cylinder is also associated with a print sector 436, 437 which is adapted to print the elapsed time on the card. Decimal-hour cylinder 310 is coupled to its print sector 436 by means of an overrunning clutch 133 that is secured to connecting hub 135 during clockwise rotation and overruns during counterclockwise rotation.

During the normal lapse of time, the cylinders are continuously indexed in the counterclockwise direction. Upon the second insertion of a card, solenoid SOL-7 is operated by closure of switch SW-12 and this activates the read clutch to drive the elapsed time drum backwards by motor M3 via 431, 31, 33, etc. (see FIG. 1), until a projection on the cylinder is stopped by an extended punch element. With reference to FIG. 19, it will be seen that this backward rotation is in fact a clockwise rotation in which pin 131 leaves pin 130 and operates against the action of spring 132. At this time, ratchet wheel 450 (FIG. 17) is prevented from rotating by backstop pawl 465. During the backward driving, print sectors 437 and 436 move as a result of the overrunning clutches intercoupling them to the time cylinders. Accordingly, when the time cylinders are stopped, the print wheels are also stopped and at this time the indications appearing on the print wheels are a manifestation of the elapsed time. Subsequent energization of solenoid SOL-5 brings the card into position for printing of the elapsed time.

Following the printing, the entire elapsed time mechanism is reset by the mechanism illustrated in FIG. 15. This is a sketch showing a perspective view of the mechanism viewed from the plane taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 12. As shown in this figure, element 444 rotates in a clockwise direction until projection 445 engages shoulder 448 on bar member 442. As a result of this engagement, member 442 move forward and urges with it the print sectors (illustrated by a single sector 436). As the rotation of wheel 444 continues, projection 445 continues to urge the print sector 436 to its home position as illustrated in dotted outline, until alignment exists between projection 445, bar 442, and camming projection 441. Thereafter, further rotation of member 444 results in disengagement and the reset mechanism resumes its initial position under the influence of spring 446. Resumption of the initial position of the reset mechanism, of course, does not afiect the home position of the print sectors.

The clockwise rotation of the print sectors permits spring 132 to return cylinder 310 to the actual time position with elements 130 and 131 in contact.

Thus, the elapsed time has been computed and printed and the equipment has been returned to its original position so that upon a subsequent insertion'of a card, the equipment can punch a time representative of the generated time at the particular instant of insertion.

SUBTRACT MECHANISM When punching In," the position of the cylinders controls the punch elements to discretely perforate the cards. However, since the hour cylinder is indexed once every hour, it is possible that this cylinder will be indexed right after punching In. lnthis case, on the subsequent punch Out," the elapsed time calculation would be 1 hour too large. To avoid this possible error in the computation, a special l hour subtract mechanism is provided. Refer to the circuit schematic in FIG. 4, and FIGS. 3 and 18.

A cam is provided on the readout clutch having four equally spaced lobes. The lobes are positioned relative to the physical indexing position of the decimal-hour cylinder 310 so that if upon readout the cam is driven back beyond the index point, a switch SW-l8 will be actuated. Switch SW-18 energizes a latch relay RY-2, closing contacts 21 and 22. Subsequently, when the read sequence closes switch SW-l7, a subtract solenoid SOL-8 is energized which will drive the hour print sector backward the equivalent of 1 hour.

As seen in FIG. 18, solenoid SOL-8, when energized, attracts member 473 which in turn moves pawl 481 to index toothed wheel 470. The toothed wheel 470 is secured to shaft 305 which is directly connected to the hour print sector.

CONCLUSION There has been disclosed a particular embodiment of an elapsed time computer. Throughout the previous discussion, only passing reference has been made to the functioning of the generated time portions of the equipment which would correspond to the operation of conventional time clocks. It is an important feature of the present elapsed time computing recorder that it can be adapted to function with a variety of conventional timing devices and is not restricted to any particular one.

Obviously, in the construction of a device of this type, it is necessary to utilize particular coupling and drive elements which take the form of ratchets, pawls, gears, etc. It is considered to be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to employ devices of an equivalent nature to those disclosed herein, but of different specific structure. Still further, whereas this disclosure makes reference to the punching of cards and the mechanical sensing thereof, these particular types of data recordation and reading are not germane to all aspects of the invention.

It is also to be appreciated that the elapsed time cylinders of he invention may be designed in other forms without necessarily losing all of their advantageous features. For example, it is contemplated that in some designs it may be considered desirable to use belts or the like in place of the cylinders, the surface of these belts being suitably configured to exert the necessary controls over the punch and sensing assemblies.

All elements and structural arrangements which come within the spirit and scope of the appended claims are intended to be covered thereby.

What we claim is:

l. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprising rotating a unit having discrete surface irregularities at a constant speed, identifying the particular irregularity that is proximate to a predetermined fixed point adjacent to said unit at said first instant of time, reversing the rotation of said unit at said second instant of time, and measuring the arc traversed by said unit until said particular irregularity is again proximate to said predetermined fixed point.

2. A method of computing elapsed time according to claim 1, including deforming a member in a position discretely representative of the particular surface irregularity proximate to said predetermined point, and using said deformation to stop the reverse rotation of said unit when said particular irregularity is again proximate to said point.

3. A method of computing elapsed time according to claim 2, including initially moving means relative to said member to effect said deformation under control of said particular irregularity, and subsequently moving said means under control of said deformation to effect stopping of the reverse rotation.

4. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprising establishing a plurality of positions in transverse rows and longitudinal columns and relatively moving a plurality of elements longitudinally past said positions at a constant rate, successive ones of each of said elements being spaced apart longitudinally by an amount twice the distance between said rows and being spaced apart transversely to coincide with said columns, detecting the particular elements coinciding with a position at said first instant of time, and measuring the displacement of said coincident elements from said position at said second instant of time.

5. An elapsed time computer comprising a substantially even surface with discrete irregularities thereon, means for moving said surface in a predetermined path past a fixed location in space, means at said fixed location operative to identify the particular surface irregularity proximate thereto at a first instant of time, means operative at a second instant of time for interrupting the motion of said surface along said predetermined path, and means for measuring the distance between said particular surface irregularity and said location at said second instant of time.

6. An elapsed time computer according to claim 5, wherein the means operative at said second instant of time reverses the motion of said surface along said path and drives it backward until said particular surface irregularity is again proximate to said fixed location in space.

7. An elapsed time computer according to claim 6, wherein said surface is cylindrical and moves about an axis at a constant rate, and wherein said distance between said particular surface irregularity and said location is measured as rotational displacement.

8. An elapsed time computer according to claim 6, including movable means located at said fixed location in space, said means being brought into contact with said surface at said first instant of time and being effective to stop the reverse motion of said surface when said particular surface irregularity is again proximate to said fixed location.

9. An elapsed time computer according to claim 8, wherein said movable means comprises a plurality of elements disposed traversely of the direction of motion of said surface, and said surface irregularities are spaced apart transversely of the direction of motion to coincide with each of said elements and are spaced apart in the direction of motion by a predetermined amount.

10. An elapsed time computer according to claim 9, wherein said movable means comprises a second plurality of elements disposed transversely of the direction of motion of said surface, and said second plurality of elements being spaced apart in the direction of motion of said surface by onehalf said predetermined amount.

11. An elapsed time computer according to claim 9, wherein said surface irregularities are discrete and predetermined variations in height, means urge all of said movable elements toward said surface at said first instant of time, means register those elements which impinge upon said surface irregularities, and said last mentioned means being operative at said second instant of time to move the registered elements only into a position to stop the reverse motion of said surface.

12. An elapsed time computer according to claim 11, said movable elements move along axes orthogonal to said surface, perforable means move said elements and at said first instant of time are perforated at positions corresponding to the axes of these elements which bear against one of said irregularities, and sensing means are operable at said second instant of time to project through the perforations and move the elements coinciding therewith, said moved elements thereby being interposed into the path of the particular surface irregularity that the elements previously bore against.

13. An elapsed time computer according to claim 12, wherein said surface is cylindrical and moves about an axis in steps, the time interval between steps being constant, and the length of each step being equal to one-half said predetermined amount.

14. A card handling apparatus including a portion adapted to receive punched cards from an operator, switch means actuated upon insertion of the leading edge of a card, drive means projecting into said portion and adapted to bear against a surface of said card, and said drive means being controlled by said switch means to force the card into the apparatus and out of reach of said operator, further switch means actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said further switch means and operative to stop said card at transverse positions determined by the location of the punched data on said cards.

15. A card handling apparatus according to claim 14, wherein said portion includes a side element and said drive means is skewed to apply a component of force urging the side of said card into contact with said side element.

16. A card handling apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said drive means include a drive wheel bearing against one surface of said cards and rotatable about an axis that is skewed to the main path of said cards, and an idler wheel bearing against the opposing surface of -said card.

17. A card handling apparatus according to claim 16, including means operative when said cards reach a predetermined position in said slot, to deactivate said drive means.

18. A card handling apparatus according to claim 16, including additional switch means operative to reverse said drive means and force said cards out of the apparatus.

19. A card processing apparatus for selectively registering and sensing data on cards, comprising positioning means effective to position each card, detection means for detecting the presence of data at a predetermined location on said cards, means controlled by said detecting means to initiate a first or second processing cycle according to the presence or absence of data at said predetermined location, and registering means operative after said detection means to register data at said predetermined location on said cards.

20. A card processing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein said data is in the form of a perforation, comprising a punch element supported within said positioning means and oriented substantially perpendicularly to the surface of said card, said detection means including a sensor element disposed for translation along the extended axis of said punch element, means for moving said positioning means relative to said punch element to effect the perforation of said card, means for moving said sensor element toward said card, and means operative to a first condition if said sensor element strikes the surface of said card and operative to a second condition if said sensor element passes through said perforation.

21. A punched card processing apparatus adapted to record data in a plurality of transversely disposed rows, comprising a channel adapted to longitudinally position said card, switch means in said channel actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said switched means and operative to stop said card at transverse positions determined by the location of the punched data on said card.

22. A card processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said stop means is controlled by perforations appearing along a predetermined longitudinal lie on said card, and in the absence of said perforations it is controlled by the leading edge of said card.

23. A card processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said stop means comprises a member extending in a plane substantially parallel to a plane containing said card. said member having orthogonal projections in the direction of said card; and means controlled by said switch means for selectively moving said orthogonal projections into the path of said card, whereby said projections prevent further movement thereof.

24. A card processing apparatus according to claim 23. wherein one of said orthogonal projections is positioned for engagement by the leading edge of said card, and the other of said projections is located at a particular transverse position relative to the face of said card, said other projection being adapted to engage perforations in said card which are located at said particular transverse position.

25. A card processing apparatus according to claim 24, including punch means located at said particular transverse position relative to the face of said card and downstream of said other projection, said punch means being operative when upon a succeeding insertion the card is to be stopped at a different transverse position.

26. A card processing apparatus according to claim 25, including second switch means actuated by said stop means, said second switch means being operative to initiate further processing of said card.

27. Card processing apparatus comprising a perforating element mounted for translation along a particular path, limit means at one end of said element for interrupting said translation, and card holding means at the other end of said element for holding said card in a plane substantially perpendicular to said path, said card holding means being movable in the direction of said path to bring said card into engagement with said perforating element, and a sensing element mounted at said other end of the perforating element for translation along said particular path, said card being held therebetween, whereby said sensing element will effect contact with said perforating element when said card is perforated at the position corresponding to said particular path.

28. Card processing apparatus according to claim 27, including a plurality of said perforating elements arranged in a particular pattern, said limit means being operable to selectively interrupt the translation of said perforating elements.

29. Card processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein said perforating element has a shoulder thereon, biasing means urge said perforating element toward said card, and restraining means engage said shoulder to normally maintain said perforating element outside of said plane.

30. Card processing apparatus comprising a sensing element mounted for axial displacement along a particular path, means for interposing a card across said path, biasing means urging said sensing element toward said card, and means for moving said sensing element toward said card, said biasing means being overcome if said card is not perforated at the location on its surface which intersects said path, and an indicator element mounted along an extension of said path behind said card and in line with said sensing element, said indicator element being axially displaced away from said card upon contact with said sensing element.

31. Card processing apparatus according to claim 30, in-

eluding means for detecting the displacement of said indicator element.

32. Card processing apparatus according to claim 30, in

cluding a plurality of sensing elements and a corresponding plurality of indicator elements, said elements being arranged in rows and columns, and means for simultaneously moving all of said sensing elements toward said card, whereby only the sensing elements aligned with perforations in the card will contact their corresponding indicator element.

33. In an elapsed time computer wherein the passage of time is indicated by the movement of a body past a particular position in space commencing at a first instant in time, a body having equally spaced projections thereon and being moved in discrete steps which have a magnitude related to the spacing between said projections, said steps being effected at predetermined intervals, means operative at a second instant in time to reverse the direction of movement of said body until the relative position between said body and said particular position correspond to that which occurred at said first instant of time, and means to measure the amount of said reverse direction movement.

34. In an elapsed time computer according to claim 33, means for decreasing the amount of said reverse direction movement b the ma itude of one discrete step if the first step was ma e within ess than one of said predetermined time intervals after said first instant of time.

35. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprising translating a unit having discrete surface irregularities at a constant speed past a predetermined position adjacent to said unit, identifying the particular surface irregularity proximate to said position at said first instant of time, reversing the direction of said translation at said second instant of time, and measuring the distance traversed by said unit to again place said particular surface irregularity proximate to said position.

36. A card processing apparatus for selectively registering and sensing data on cards, comprising a channel adapted to longitudinally position said card, switch means in said channel actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said switch means and operative to stop said card at a transverse position determined by the perforations on said card, detection means for detecting the presence of perforations at a predetermined location on said cards, means controlled by said detecting means to initiate a first or second processing cycle according to the presence or absence of perforations at said predetermined location, and registering means to register data at said predetermined location on said cards. 

1. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprising rotating a unit having discrete surface irregularities at a constant speed, identifying the particular irregularity that is proximate to a predetermined fixed point adjacent to said unit at said first instant of time, reversing the rotation of said unit at said second instant of time, and measuring the arc traversed by said unit until said particular irregularity is again proximate to said predetermined fixed point.
 2. A method of computing elapsed time according to claim 1, including deforming a member in a position discretely representative of the particular surface irregularity proximate to said predetermined point, and using said deformation to stop the reverse rotation of said unit when said particular irregularity is again proximate to said point.
 3. A method of computing elapsed time according to claim 2, including initially moving means relative to said member to effect said deformation under control of said particular irregularity, and subsequently moving said means under control of said deformation to effect stopping of the reverse rotation.
 4. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprisinG establishing a plurality of positions in transverse rows and longitudinal columns and relatively moving a plurality of elements longitudinally past said positions at a constant rate, successive ones of each of said elements being spaced apart longitudinally by an amount twice the distance between said rows and being spaced apart transversely to coincide with said columns, detecting the particular elements coinciding with a position at said first instant of time, and measuring the displacement of said coincident elements from said position at said second instant of time.
 5. An elapsed time computer comprising a substantially even surface with discrete irregularities thereon, means for moving said surface in a predetermined path past a fixed location in space, means at said fixed location operative to identify the particular surface irregularity proximate thereto at a first instant of time, means operative at a second instant of time for interrupting the motion of said surface along said predetermined path, and means for measuring the distance between said particular surface irregularity and said location at said second instant of time.
 6. An elapsed time computer according to claim 5, wherein the means operative at said second instant of time reverses the motion of said surface along said path and drives it backward until said particular surface irregularity is again proximate to said fixed location in space.
 7. An elapsed time computer according to claim 6, wherein said surface is cylindrical and moves about an axis at a constant rate, and wherein said distance between said particular surface irregularity and said location is measured as rotational displacement.
 8. An elapsed time computer according to claim 6, including movable means located at said fixed location in space, said means being brought into contact with said surface at said first instant of time and being effective to stop the reverse motion of said surface when said particular surface irregularity is again proximate to said fixed location.
 9. An elapsed time computer according to claim 8, wherein said movable means comprises a plurality of elements disposed traversely of the direction of motion of said surface, and said surface irregularities are spaced apart transversely of the direction of motion to coincide with each of said elements and are spaced apart in the direction of motion by a predetermined amount.
 10. An elapsed time computer according to claim 9, wherein said movable means comprises a second plurality of elements disposed transversely of the direction of motion of said surface, and said second plurality of elements being spaced apart in the direction of motion of said surface by one-half said predetermined amount.
 11. An elapsed time computer according to claim 9, wherein said surface irregularities are discrete and predetermined variations in height, means urge all of said movable elements toward said surface at said first instant of time, means register those elements which impinge upon said surface irregularities, and said last mentioned means being operative at said second instant of time to move the registered elements only into a position to stop the reverse motion of said surface.
 12. An elapsed time computer according to claim 11, said movable elements move along axes orthogonal to said surface, perforable means move said elements and at said first instant of time are perforated at positions corresponding to the axes of these elements which bear against one of said irregularities, and sensing means are operable at said second instant of time to project through the perforations and move the elements coinciding therewith, said moved elements thereby being interposed into the path of the particular surface irregularity that the elements previously bore against.
 13. An elapsed time computer according to claim 12, wherein said surface is cylindrical and moves about an axis in steps, the time interval between steps being constant, and the length of each step being eQual to one-half said predetermined amount.
 14. A card handling apparatus including a portion adapted to receive punched cards from an operator, switch means actuated upon insertion of the leading edge of a card, drive means projecting into said portion and adapted to bear against a surface of said card, and said drive means being controlled by said switch means to force the card into the apparatus and out of reach of said operator, further switch means actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said further switch means and operative to stop said card at transverse positions determined by the location of the punched data on said cards.
 15. A card handling apparatus according to claim 14, wherein said portion includes a side element and said drive means is skewed to apply a component of force urging the side of said card into contact with said side element.
 16. A card handling apparatus according to claim 14 wherein said drive means include a drive wheel bearing against one surface of said cards and rotatable about an axis that is skewed to the main path of said cards, and an idler wheel bearing against the opposing surface of said card.
 17. A card handling apparatus according to claim 16, including means operative when said cards reach a predetermined position in said slot, to deactivate said drive means.
 18. A card handling apparatus according to claim 16, including additional switch means operative to reverse said drive means and force said cards out of the apparatus.
 19. A card processing apparatus for selectively registering and sensing data on cards, comprising positioning means effective to position each card, detection means for detecting the presence of data at a predetermined location on said cards, means controlled by said detecting means to initiate a first or second processing cycle according to the presence or absence of data at said predetermined location, and registering means operative after said detection means to register data at said predetermined location on said cards.
 20. A card processing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein said data is in the form of a perforation, comprising a punch element supported within said positioning means and oriented substantially perpendicularly to the surface of said card, said detection means including a sensor element disposed for translation along the extended axis of said punch element, means for moving said positioning means relative to said punch element to effect the perforation of said card, means for moving said sensor element toward said card, and means operative to a first condition if said sensor element strikes the surface of said card and operative to a second condition if said sensor element passes through said perforation.
 21. A punched card processing apparatus adapted to record data in a plurality of transversely disposed rows, comprising a channel adapted to longitudinally position said card, switch means in said channel actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said switched means and operative to stop said card at transverse positions determined by the location of the punched data on said card.
 22. A card processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said stop means is controlled by perforations appearing along a predetermined longitudinal lie on said card, and in the absence of said perforations it is controlled by the leading edge of said card.
 23. A card processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said stop means comprises a member extending in a plane substantially parallel to a plane containing said card, said member having orthogonal projections in the direction of said card; and means controlled by said switch means for selectively moving said orthogonal projections into the path of said card, whereby said projections prevent further movement thereof.
 24. A card processing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein one of said orthogonal projections is positIoned for engagement by the leading edge of said card, and the other of said projections is located at a particular transverse position relative to the face of said card, said other projection being adapted to engage perforations in said card which are located at said particular transverse position.
 25. A card processing apparatus according to claim 24, including punch means located at said particular transverse position relative to the face of said card and downstream of said other projection, said punch means being operative when upon a succeeding insertion the card is to be stopped at a different transverse position.
 26. A card processing apparatus according to claim 25, including second switch means actuated by said stop means, said second switch means being operative to initiate further processing of said card.
 27. Card processing apparatus comprising a perforating element mounted for translation along a particular path, limit means at one end of said element for interrupting said translation, and card holding means at the other end of said element for holding said card in a plane substantially perpendicular to said path, said card holding means being movable in the direction of said path to bring said card into engagement with said perforating element, and a sensing element mounted at said other end of the perforating element for translation along said particular path, said card being held therebetween, whereby said sensing element will effect contact with said perforating element when said card is perforated at the position corresponding to said particular path.
 28. Card processing apparatus according to claim 27, including a plurality of said perforating elements arranged in a particular pattern, said limit means being operable to selectively interrupt the translation of said perforating elements.
 29. Card processing apparatus according to claim 27, wherein said perforating element has a shoulder thereon, biasing means urge said perforating element toward said card, and restraining means engage said shoulder to normally maintain said perforating element outside of said plane.
 30. Card processing apparatus comprising a sensing element mounted for axial displacement along a particular path, means for interposing a card across said path, biasing means urging said sensing element toward said card, and means for moving said sensing element toward said card, said biasing means being overcome if said card is not perforated at the location on its surface which intersects said path, and an indicator element mounted along an extension of said path behind said card and in line with said sensing element, said indicator element being axially displaced away from said card upon contact with said sensing element.
 31. Card processing apparatus according to claim 30, including means for detecting the displacement of said indicator element.
 32. Card processing apparatus according to claim 30, including a plurality of sensing elements and a corresponding plurality of indicator elements, said elements being arranged in rows and columns, and means for simultaneously moving all of said sensing elements toward said card, whereby only the sensing elements aligned with perforations in the card will contact their corresponding indicator element.
 33. In an elapsed time computer wherein the passage of time is indicated by the movement of a body past a particular position in space commencing at a first instant in time, a body having equally spaced projections thereon and being moved in discrete steps which have a magnitude related to the spacing between said projections, said steps being effected at predetermined intervals, means operative at a second instant in time to reverse the direction of movement of said body until the relative position between said body and said particular position correspond to that which occurred at said first instant of time, and means to measure the amount of said reverse direction movement.
 34. In an elapsed time computer accordinG to claim 33, means for decreasing the amount of said reverse direction movement by the magnitude of one discrete step if the first step was made within less than one of said predetermined time intervals after said first instant of time.
 35. A method of computing elapsed time between first and second instants of time comprising translating a unit having discrete surface irregularities at a constant speed past a predetermined position adjacent to said unit, identifying the particular surface irregularity proximate to said position at said first instant of time, reversing the direction of said translation at said second instant of time, and measuring the distance traversed by said unit to again place said particular surface irregularity proximate to said position.
 36. A card processing apparatus for selectively registering and sensing data on cards, comprising a channel adapted to longitudinally position said card, switch means in said channel actuated when said card reaches a predetermined position, and stop means controlled by said switch means and operative to stop said card at a transverse position determined by the perforations on said card, detection means for detecting the presence of perforations at a predetermined location on said cards, means controlled by said detecting means to initiate a first or second processing cycle according to the presence or absence of perforations at said predetermined location, and registering means to register data at said predetermined location on said cards. 